Colony break-up occurs as the butterflies descend the mountains along drainages and arroyos to find open sources of water to drink. They leave the colony and increasingly don't come all the way back.

Conversation with Dr. Lincoln Brower
Dr. Brower is a world-renowned monarch scientist who has studied overwintering biology in Mexico since the 1970s. He shares his observations and concerns after his trip to see the colonies in late February.

• Conversation with Dr. Brower

Migrants Coming Soon
Gail Morris of Southwest Monarch Study, who traveled with Dr. Brower's team, noted:

"The monarchs will slowly begin to leave the sanctuaries and should be arriving in the southern states soon. We spotted monarchs all around the towns near the sanctuaries."

Her three video clips capture the wonder of monarchs.